Today in Baseball History: April 8th

2008 On April 8, 2008, Detroit second baseman Placido Polanco made a throwing error to snap his record errorless streak. Polanco had gone 186 games and 911 total chances without a miscue, dating back to July 1, 2006.

2008 On April 8, 2008, former Red Sox first baseman Bill Buckner returned to Fenway Park for opening day and received a standing ovation. Buckner"s error in Game Six of the 1986 World Series, which helped lead to the Mets miraculous comeback, had been vilified by many, including the press. An emotional Buckner tossed out the first pitch after the Sox 2007 World Series flag was unfurled.

1993 On April 8, 1993, Carlos Baerga of the Cleveland Indians becomes the first player to switch-hit home runs in the same inning. In the seventh inning, Baerga connects against New York Yankee relievers Steve Howe and Steve Farr. Baerga's outburst helps the Indians to a 15-5 win.

1989 On April 8, 1989, one-handed pitcher Jim Abbott makes his major league debut for the California Angels. Abbott lasts only four and two-thirds innings in a 7-0 loss to the Seattle Mariners, but will still win 12 games in his rookie season.

1987 On April 8, 1987, the Los Angeles Dodgers fire vice-president Al Campanis after he made racial remarks on national TV two days earlier. Campanis suggested that blacks lacked the "necessities" to become managers…

1975 On April 8, 1975, future Hall of Famer Frank Robinson makes his debut as major league baseball's first black manager. Rachel Robinson, the widow of Jackie Robinson, throws out the ceremonial first pitch before a crowd of 56,204. As the player-manager of the Cleveland Indians, Frank Robinson homers in his first at-bat, helping the Tribe to a 5-3 win over the New York Yankees…

1974 On April 8, 1974, Atlanta Braves superstar Hank Aaron makes baseball history when he breaks Babe Ruth's career record for home runs with a blast off Al Downing of the Dodgers.

1969 On April 8, 1969, four expansion teams make their debuts. The Kansas City Royals, Seattle Pilots, Montreal Expos and San Diego Padres all win their inaugural games. Coco Laboy's three-run homer helps the Expos to an 11-10 victory over the New York Mets.

1968 On April 8, 1968, the major leagues decide to postpone Opening Day because of the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. With 11 black players on their roster, the Pittsburgh Pirates vote not to play games on Monday - the day of the scheduled opener - or Tuesday. The Pirates will open the season on Wednesday. The National Football League plays their games on the day of King"s assassination and are criticized for the decision.

1963 On April 8, 1963, the Detroit Tigers claim little-known pitcher Denny McLain on waivers from the Chicago White Sox, who will regret their decision. After brief stints for the Tigers in 1963 and 1964, McLain will win 108 games from 1965 through 1969, and a pair of Cy Young awards.

1946 On April 8, 1946, future Hall of Famer Catfish Hunter is born in Hertford, North Carolina. Hunter will make his debut in 1965 and will win election to the Hall of Fame in 1987.